What are the weak points and where do they break down?
On what to look for when buying a nitrogen or oxygen generator? Since customers are often faced with the fact that this equipment is purchased for the first time, few know what problems may arise and on what to look for when choosing a nitrogen generator.Adsorbent
The adsorbent can fail and this is the most " evil problem " but fortunately not the most common. If this happens, the adsorbent will almost have to be replaced. This often happens because of improper operation, particularly when moisture is admitted into the generator. This can happen because the air dryer broke or was not turned on, or the air line filters were not changed according to regulation. When manufacturing the generator, some manufacturers add a layer of silica gel to the column itself, just in case this happens. This increases the volume of the adsorber, can negatively affect the energy efficiency of the generator (1-2%), but it saves.
Adsorbers
The adsorber can burst. This is rare, but it does sometimes happen, despite the fact that all the strength calculations have been done correctly, the adsorber has the data sheets and all the necessary documentation. The only weak point in such a case is the seams. It is worth to pay special attention to how the seams are made and the quality of welding. This can be checked by X-ray examination of the welded joints.
Applications
It can happen that the adsorbent comes out through the air exhaust system. There is a so-called "natural carry-over of the adsorbent". This was the problem with the old stations from reputable European manufacturers. There should not, of course, be any "natural carry-over". This is achieved as follows: correct and dense filling of the adsorbent, good pressure of the adsorbent from above (springs and even sometimes pneumatic valves), quality filter elements at the bottom. This prevents the adsorbent from drifting away completely.
Air valves
Since the equipment operates on short cycles and one valve operates about 1500 times per day, this is quite an important element of the system. Failure of just one valve (which can be up to 16 in one generator) will lead to complete failure of the generator. Valves from European and Japanese manufacturers show very good results and problems with them are exceptionally rare. We advise to make sure what kind of clunks were used. The best known of the brands at the moment are: Burkert, OmalVIP, SMC.
